Osaka is Japan's perfect alternative to jam-packed Tokyo. It is the second-largest metropolitan area in the country and promises a unique and authentic experience to all travelers.
There's a lot to do in this lively city. You can walk amongst vibrant cherry blossoms or explore the nightlife that the city is known for. Read on to make the best of your stay in Osaka.
But before you pack your bags, make sure to purchase Osaka travel insurance. With Japan travel insurance, you can enjoy your time in Osaka without the worry of major financial setbacks in the event of an accident, mishap or injury.
Osaka Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
If something were to happen that requires you to cancel your trip, you'll also want to cancel your hotel reservations and airline tickets. The trouble is, these bookings are usually nonrefundable. Trip cancellation insurance can reimburse you for these prepaid costs.
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Osaka?
No matter how much time and effort you spend planning your trip to Osaka, some things are simply beyond your control. A sudden illness, injury or family emergency could require you to cancel your trip. Likewise, a tropical storm or other natural disaster could make flying impossible. Whatever the case, you'll want to have some sort of financial recourse to cover all the money you've already spent.
Trip cancellation is designed to cover you for the prepaid, nonrefundable costs you've paid for your trip. Without it, you may end up paying for a trip you never even got to take.
How much travel insurance do I need for Osaka?
Beyond trip cancellation coverage, your Osaka travel insurance should provide benefits including:
- Trip interruption coverage
- Flight delay coverage
- Coverage for loss of baggage or baggage delays
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Repatriation of remains
The exact details of what is covered by a specific plan will be explained in the policy wording. Be sure to read your plan carefully so you know exactly what is included with your coverage.
Things to Do for Travelers in Osaka
Osaka Castle and Osaka Castle Park
Your trip to Osaka is isn't complete until you visit this magnificent castle. Osaka Castle is one of Japan's most famous landmarks and is a standing testament to Japanese culture.
The Castle treats visitors to beautiful ornamentations and balustrades. However, you also have to remember to visit Castle Park. There, you can walk amongst the serene cherry blossoms of Nishinomaru Garden or view the hundreds of varieties of trees in the plum orchards.
Sumiyoshi Taisha
Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine speaks volumes about Japan's culture. Built in the 3rd century, the Sumiyoshi Taisha is one of Japan's oldest shrines.
The architecture of this shrine is free from the influences of the Asian Mainland. The name of this style is Sumiyoshi-zukuri. This shrine is yet another marvel that adds to the architectural diversity of Osaka.
Dotonbori
Dotonbori derives its name from the canal it sits next to. It is one of the major tourist attractions in Osaka. Popular for its kuidaore food culture and large, attractive neon billboards, Dotonbori has it all - fancy bars such as Balabushka and traditional restaurants such as the ones found in Hozenji-Yokocho. Experiencing the nightlife here in Dotonbori is a must for tourists.
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
The Osaka Aquarium is a marvelous structure housing 620 species of marine animals. It consists of 15 tanks, with each tank representing a specific region of the Pacific Rim.
The main tank, holding 5,400 tons of water, is home to a pair of marvelous whale sharks. The Kaiyukan is one of the few aquariums that boasts of such an attraction.
The Kaiyukan is an aquarium like no other. Both children and adults will have a whale of a time here (no pun intended).
Universal Studios Japan
Another attraction in Osaka worth visiting is Universal Studios Japan. This is a theme park in the Osaka Bay Area. The eight sections of the park are full of amusement rides, making it comparable to the Tokyo Disney Resort.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Osaka
Heavy Traffic
Osaka is a large, busy metropolitan area, and like any major city, there are traffic issues. Be especially mindful to watch for traffic when crossing streets. Don't just assume it's clear to cross when you have the signal to walk.
Crime
Osaka is considered quite safe for visitors. However, being a large city, petty crimes are certainly possible. Do not leave your valuables unattended, particularly in popular tourist areas.
Air Pollution
Osaka is the second largest metropolitan area in Japan. As a busy urban center, it experiences air pollution. In recent years, the heightened emission of anthropogenic particles in the city has made news. These particles can harm the heart and lungs.
If you have a preexisting respiratory condition, consider wearing an N-95 mask while you are outdoors in Osaka. This can prevent you from inhaling pollutants to some extent.
Before You Travel to Osaka - Do This
- Learn local customs. Read some books or watch videos about common local traditions and social mores. Not only is it respectful to learn these, it's also extremely interesting.
- Get your documents in order. Carry your travel documents securely and within easy reach. It's one less thing to worry about when you need to produce them.
- Get insured. Purchase proper travel insurance. It's an essential part of any well-prepared traveler's checklist.